Loge de mer

Loge de mer, a stunning example of Catalan Gothic architecture, stands proudly in the heart of Perpignan, France. This historic building, known locally as Loge de mer de Perpignan, has witnessed centuries of history and remains a testament to the city’s rich maritime and commercial heritage. Located at the bustling Place de la Loge, it is a must-visit landmark for anyone exploring the old town of Perpignan.

The History of Loge de mer

The origins of Loge de mer date back to the late 14th century when Jean I of Aragon established a consulate of the sea on October 22, 1388. This consulate was tasked with regulating and adjudicating all maritime trade disputes in Perpignan and the surrounding counties of Roussillon and Cerdagne. By 1394, it also took on the responsibility of collecting duties on goods entering and leaving these regions. In 1397, Martin I of Aragon authorized the construction of a dedicated building for the consulate, marking the beginning of what would become Loge de mer.

The initial construction phase likely took place in the early 15th century, with the building being completed by 1439. The original structure featured a high ground floor with four arches—two facing Rue des Marchands and two facing the square—serving as a marketplace. The upper floor housed the tribunal and the consulate offices, accessible via a turret staircase at the end of the façade. Additionally, a chapel was situated in the lower hall.

In 1540, following the entry of Charles V into Perpignan, the building was expanded, doubling its size up to the former lateral entrance of the town hall. This extension mirrored the original architecture, and a commemorative plaque between the new arches bears witness to this addition. The grand ceiling of the ground floor hall, once decorated and polychrome, rested on intermediate arches.

Transformations Over the Centuries

By 1751, the consulate of the sea had ceased its activities, and the building was ceded to the Count of Mailly, the commanding officer of Roussillon. He transformed Loge de mer into a theater, leading to the destruction of the original ceiling and the removal of the chapel, whose altarpiece was transferred to Saint-Jacques Church and now resides in the Rigaud Museum.

Following the French Revolution, the building was repurposed as a mail depot. In 1841, the city of Perpignan, under Mayor Guiraud de Saint-Marsal, restored Loge de mer, contemplating its demolition. A new floor was constructed to restore the two levels, the façade was slightly raised, and the top balustrade was rebuilt. The only surviving part of the original balustrade was the pillar bearing the famous weathervane, depicting a ship. The ground floor hall was leased out as Café de France in 1842, while the upper floor became a meeting room, later named Salle Arago. The arches on the square were adorned with monumental Gothic-style woodwork.

In 1912, a new ceiling replaced the one from 1841, and the façades were restored in 1951, losing their neo-Gothic woodwork. The square received a marble paving, and in 1992, the iron weather vane was replaced with a replica, with the original now housed in the town hall.

Architectural Highlights

Loge de mer is a rectangular building, with a façade measuring 25 meters along the square and 10 meters along the street. The ground floor features two pointed arches on the short side facing the street, and four arches on the long side facing the square. The upper floor has large rectangular windows divided into three lancets, with five groups of two windows on the square-facing façade.

The intricate stonework and Gothic details of Loge de mer are a sight to behold. The upper floor windows boast ornate tracery, and the balustrade crowning the building is a masterpiece of Gothic craftsmanship. The weathervane, a ship, is a nod to the building’s maritime roots and adds a whimsical touch to its imposing presence.

Modern-Day Loge de mer

In 1984, a fast-food restaurant occupied the ground floor space, later replaced by the brasserie Le France in 2001. Financial difficulties led to the closure of the brasserie, and in 2017, the city of Perpignan bought back the commercial lease to establish the tourist office in the building.

Today, Loge de mer continues to be a focal point in Perpignan’s civic life. Its storied past, architectural beauty, and central location make it a must-visit for tourists and a beloved landmark for locals. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply looking to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Perpignan’s old town, Loge de mer offers a unique glimpse into the city’s rich heritage and enduring spirit.